One simple advancement was the introduction of the mouse to aid in user input/control of PCs. It was a simple extension of our natural pointing and hand control. It would be interesting to see the development history of the basic mouse and what other developments it caused.

This is an excellent post that thoughtfully lauds a simple technology that has evolved into QR codes among many other things. However, QR codes don't have the nice human-readable element of numbers. I would love to see usage stats on QR codes around the world because of the rise of mobile devices. With the rise of 3D technology, I wonder how we can merge barcodes for neat interaction experiences.

July is almost here - and with it comes the United States Postal Service 2 month "Mobile Barcode Promotion" to place (2-D) QR barcodes on mailed envelopes for a 3% postage discount. This marketing program represents a different barcode application from most of those we read about here. General information, eligibility, and requirements are available at the USPS web site FAQ: https://ribbs.usps.gov/mobilebarcode/documents/tech_guides/FAQsMobileBarcodePromotion.pdf

Honestly, I have never understood why bar codes aren't used more than they are. They are much simpler than, for instance, the new embedded chips. And for some purposes, like access badges or even credit cards, they should be more than adequate and they are very robust. Much better than that nuisance of a magnetic strip!!
Like the article says, the device with the code on it needs nothing special at all. No antenna, no battery, just some ink or paint on the surface.
I hope that they live long and prosper.

well i went to a grocery store and the scanner was not working, i cant believe how much chaos it created, the counter guy was not able to bill any item and the load shifted to only two other counters that were open. We are so much dependent on these bar code scanners and computer these days that if something doesnt work the whole life comes to still.

The BAR CODE is probably the first attempt to make our life digital. I wish, back in early seventies I could encode my FORTRAN programs using the bar coding machines instead of those bulky card punching machines.

This story is yet another reminder of the necessity to provide a solution to the problem, not one part of the solution.
The adage goes: Never sell a component. Always sell a solution....even if the solution is a component. If you sell only a component you most always lose. If you sell a solution you at least have a chance to win (and dominate).
The key is the solution. That is what wins in the marketplace.

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